Alton

Located in the rolling hills of East Hampshire, Alton is a charming market town that offers a blend of historical significance, picturesque landscapes, and modern convenience. It’s an ideal location for those seeking a mix of rural tranquility and easy access to larger towns and cities. Whether you’re considering relocating, investing, or just passing through, here’s an overview of what Alton has to offer.

Overview

Alton is a town with a rich history, dating back to the Saxon era. The town’s rural setting in the South Downs National Park gives it a lovely, peaceful atmosphere, while its proximity to London (about an hour by train) makes it an attractive spot for commuters.

The town is well-known for its attractive market square, historic buildings, and strong community feel. Surrounded by countryside, Alton also benefits from being close to some of Hampshire’s most scenic landscapes, including the South Downs and the village of Chawton, where Jane Austen spent her later years.

Key Areas in Alton

1. Alton Town Centre The heart of Alton is its bustling town centre, which has a blend of independent shops, cafes, pubs, and restaurants. The traditional market square hosts weekly markets, and there are often seasonal events and festivals. Here, you’ll find many of the town’s historical buildings, including the town hall and the 18th-century red brick church, St. Lawrence’s Church.
2. Chawton Located just a short distance from Alton, Chawton is one of the most famous nearby villages. It’s the birthplace of Jane Austen’s brother Edward and the place where she spent the last eight years of her life. The Jane Austen’s House Museum attracts literary fans from around the world. The village itself is peaceful and quintessentially English, with lovely cottages, a traditional pub, and beautiful walks.
3. Farnham Road & Surrounding Areas A more residential area of Alton, Farnham Road offers easy access to the town centre while being slightly more removed from the hustle and bustle. It’s ideal for families, with good schools and plenty of green spaces nearby, such as the lovely King’s Pond.
4. The Butts The Butts area is another residential part of Alton, with a mix of Victorian houses, modern housing estates, and more affordable properties. It is just a short walk to the centre of town and offers local amenities such as schools, parks, and medical centres.
5. Alton Park A bit further out from the town centre, Alton Park offers larger family homes and is close to Alton’s larger green spaces, including Alton Park itself, a spacious park with a playground, tennis courts, and picnic areas.

Transport & Connectivity

Train: Alton has a direct train service to London Waterloo, with a typical journey time of around 1 hour. The train station is located a short distance from the town centre.

Road: Alton is well-connected by road, with the A31 running nearby, providing access to Winchester and beyond. The A3 can also be accessed via Farnham, offering routes to London and the South Coast.

Bus: Local buses run regularly to surrounding villages and towns, making it easy to get around the area. Alton’s bus station is located centrally, near the train station.

Education

Alton has a number of well-regarded schools, both primary and secondary, making it a good choice for families with children. Some notable ones include:

• Alton Convent School (Independent, girls-only)
• Amery Hill School (Secondary school)
• Alton College (Sixth form college)
• The Butts Primary School and St. Lawrence Primary School are also popular choices for younger children.

Leisure & Amenities

1. Alton Sports Centre: A large sports complex with a gym, swimming pool, and sports hall offering a variety of fitness classes and leisure activities.
2. The Rural Life Centre: A fascinating open-air museum offering insight into rural life in Hampshire, complete with antique farm machinery, period cottages, and historical exhibits.
3. Walking & Cycling: With the South Downs National Park nearby, Alton is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. There are many walking and cycling routes, including the well-known “Hampshire Hoppity” trail and the nearby Watercress Line heritage railway for steam train rides.
4. Public Parks: Alton has several lovely parks for relaxation and recreation, including Alton Park, King’s Pond, and Flood Meadow, which is perfect for picnics or a peaceful walk along the River Wey.
5. Local Pubs & Restaurants: The town boasts a variety of pubs and dining spots. Whether you’re after traditional British fare, a cosy coffee shop, or international cuisine, Alton has options to suit every taste. Notable spots include The Swan Hotel, The George Hotel, and The Angel Inn.

Housing & Property

Alton offers a mix of property types, from charming cottages and period homes to modern townhouses and family-friendly developments on the outskirts of town. The town is considered a desirable area, especially for families and those looking for a quieter lifestyle within commuting distance of London.

• Property Prices: The average property price in Alton is slightly above the national average but still considerably more affordable compared to areas like Guildford or Winchester. As of 2024, house prices in Alton average around £450,000 for a semi-detached home, with prices ranging widely depending on the location and size of the property.
• Renting: Alton also has a strong rental market, with a variety of options available, from one-bedroom flats to larger family homes. Rental prices in Alton are generally reasonable compared to nearby towns and cities.

Shopping & Retail

Alton has a selection of independent shops, local boutiques, and some high-street chains. The Market Square is home to a range of local businesses, selling everything from fresh produce to antiques and gifts.

For larger retail needs, Thefold and The Orchard Shopping Centre offer more variety. There are also supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Waitrose in town, and a nearby retail park in Bordon offers additional shopping options.

Local Events

Alton has a packed calendar of events throughout the year, including:

• The Alton Food Festival: A celebration of local produce and food, with stalls, food trucks, and live entertainment.
• Alton Christmas Market: A festive market featuring local crafts, gifts, and seasonal treats.
• The Watercress Line Steam Festival: A fantastic event for train enthusiasts, with vintage steam trains running on the heritage railway.
• Alton Lions Carnival: A popular annual event featuring parades, live music, and local performances.

Conclusion

Alton is a beautiful town offering a combination of natural beauty, historical charm, and a strong community feel. With its scenic surroundings, strong local amenities, and good transport links to London, it’s an ideal place for families, retirees, and professionals alike. Whether you’re looking to settle in the town or just visit, Alton provides a welcoming and peaceful setting that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.